Overview
Chincoteague Substation is an operational electrical substation in Virginia, United States, owned and operated by A&N Electric Cooperative. It operates at 69 kV, serving the local grid.
Chincoteague Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Virginia, United States. Owned and operated by A&N Electric Cooperative, it plays a key role in distributing electricity to the Chincoteague area. The substation operates at a voltage of 69 kV, typical for sub-transmission and distribution-level infrastructure in rural cooperative networks. As part of the U.S. electrical grid, this facility adheres to NERC reliability standards and is subject to FERC regulation for interconnection and reliability. A&N Electric Cooperative, a member-owned utility, serves customers on Virginia's Eastern Shore. Substations like this one are critical for stepping down voltage from transmission lines to distribution levels for residential and commercial use. The substation's location near the Atlantic coast and sensitive ecosystems like the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge underscores the importance of reliable power for both community and environmental management. Its role in the cooperative's network supports local resilience and economic activity in the region.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a coastal region with sensitive ecosystems, including marshes and wildlife habitats. Electrical infrastructure here must balance reliability with environmental stewardship, often involving measures to protect local flora and fauna. The 69 kV voltage level indicates a sub-transmission role, with potential impacts from storm surges and sea-level rise, necessitating robust design and maintenance practices.
Frequently asked questions
Chincoteague Substation is located in Virginia, United States, near the town of Chincoteague on the Eastern Shore.
Chincoteague Substation operates at 69 kV, which is a common voltage for sub-transmission and distribution substations in rural cooperative networks.
Chincoteague Substation is owned and operated by A&N Electric Cooperative, a member-owned utility serving the Eastern Shore of Virginia.
Substations in the United States must comply with NERC reliability standards for grid stability and FERC regulations for interstate transmission. Local cooperatives also follow state utility commission rules.
A 69 kV substation typically steps down voltage from higher transmission lines (e.g., 115 kV or 230 kV) to distribution levels (e.g., 12 kV or 34.5 kV) for delivery to homes and businesses, serving as a critical link in the power supply chain.